Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"Mack was my platoon sergeant when he died. he was the first friend I lost, and truth is he was standing where I might have stood when he was wounded. We were escorting Seals around the AO and for that reason we ran skeleton crews to accommodate "Black Beard." When they told me to stay at the FOB I was all too happy to rest up. Now I wish I could go back and stand where I might have... They fired a 107mm rocket at the Stryker, and fragmentation is what got him. What a man to live and learn under"
Sgt Stephen DuMond of Stillwater, PA

"Mack, as we start this Memorial Day, I am thinking of you and your drive to win. Brother in Arms from 4/22 Infantry 25th INF Division. Battle Buddy, friend, one hell of a leader."
James Myers of North Carolina

"When I learned Brian had passed, a good part of my past also died. Brian was my best friend at St. Theresa Parish and school. I hadn't thought of him for many years and something inside told me to look him up and here I am. I, certain he was an outstanding leader as many looked up to him even at the age of 12 years old. No doubt he is missed by many."
Alan Bray of ANCHORAGE, AK

"To the family of Brian Mack. My heart and prayers go out to you. May the time past soften the pain you had to experience. I am an army mom and I was also a childhood friend of Brian's from the Maryvale area. I only found out about Brian recently and was sadden to hear of his passing..Prayers and love to all his family.."
Paula Esquer of Phx AZ USA

"I remember SFC Mack and his wife going to my fights. I looked up to him as a young soldier. I was crushed when I found out he died. His family needs to know "I HAVE NOT FORGOTTEN, I WILL NEVER FORGET". I miss him and think of him often."
SFC Jacob Torrez of JBLM, WA. USA

"I... Words cant say, brian was and still will be my best friend."
Matt Schaffer of Grimes, Iowa

"It's hard to believe that 8 years have gone by since you were taken from us. I look forward to seeing you again "Big Mack". RIP brother. Rangers Lead The Way!!!"
Alan Bryan of Chester, SC

"I just called him "Mack" he always walked with that confidence. He told me things straight up then a pat on the back. It's going on 8yrs and I'm sorry I kept my condolences to myself.
To his family, he was a great spirited man , bless you."
Brenda

"I knew and served with "Mack Daddy" back when he was a SSG Team Leader at Hood serving in E Co 52nd INF LRSC. He was a great guy and a mentor to a lot of us. It weighs heavy on my heart to hear of his passing. Gone but never forgotten - RANGERS LEAD THE WAY!!!"
Cutter of Nashville

"Lisa, I am not sure if you remember me. My name is geoff booker, and I was asigned to the compound as the combatives instructor. I just wanted to let you know you are not alone. Nearly 8 years later, I still miss him. I am thankful that I was able to see him and hug him one last time!"
geoff booker of arlington, ky

"I will mirror my fellow soldier and great friend Brad Benton, I remember the day SFC Mack and SSG Solo were taken from us and it was a horrible time for us and for anyone that knew them. I now have two sons and since their death and I am filled with joy and guilt. I also pledge to teach them of the sacrifice of this great man along with SSG Solorio and to make them the best men they can be for my family and for the men that did not come home like me. SFC Mack was a great man and a great NCO"
Dymond of Thornton CO

"You still have not been forgotten Brian. Peace be with you."
Rhonda Leatherwood of Olympia

"SFC Mack was my PLT SGT. I was fortunate enough to be with him on the day of his passing. He was what all soldiers wanted to be, an outstanding leader."
SSG Donaldson, Anthony of Arizona

"Brian Mack was my team leader while I was with E Co 52nd INF III corps LRSC. I am deeply sorry for the loss. He was a great leader and taught me how to dig deep within myself and to never quit or give up... I was very young back then and what he taught helped me get through Ranger school and that "dig" has been what has helped me succeed in life. I will never forget SSGT Mack and again I am deeply sorry.... RANGERS LEAD THE WAY..."
Tom of Valley Center, ks

"miss you, you are always on my mind"
Alex Gonzalez of calgary,ab

"Brian was a great leader as our QB during our freshman and JV years, so it does not suprise me that he was a great leader for our country. From all your former Maryvale Panthers Brian, we got the SOB for you and all the others who have fallen to keep us free."
David of Mesa,AZ/USA

"Finally they took him out.Even though it has taken a few years it has finally come true. You died believing in protecting the US. I still miss you"
rhonda Leatherwood of olympia

"I am a member of a committee at DuPont, Wa. We are building a war memorial that will be dedicated on Nov. 11, 2010. We would like to contact you...our email number is courtship@comcast.net."
Phil and Gayle Courts of DuPont, Wa.

"January 11, 2010

Lisa I know I haven't been the best cousin to you. I havn't seen you in years and it took the death of our grandmother to bring us back in touch. I am sorry that I never met your husband and daughter. Being with you while you visited Brian's grave site and to see how much pain was in your voice and eyes lets me know how much you still love him made me realize that family should never lose touch. I am sorry that I wasn't there for you and Ashley when you lost Brian. After reading all of the comments on this board, I know Brian was good person and father. After being there with you, I know he was a great husband as well. I never knew Brian, but I am just as proud of him."
Steve Randall of Tucson, Arizona

"I never want to forget the sacrifices of so many young men and women. I am so proud it makes me cry. I understand in theory only that war is a part of human nature but so is love and caring. I wish I could take the families pain away but I can't. I am committed to loving ALL people, myself and our environment. I am committed to working on my happiness everyday because so many have died for my freedom to live my life. Thank you is not enough but it is all I have. All my love and respect. ogersteiner@yahoo.com"
Scott E. Steiner of Worthington, OH

"My deepest prayers go out to the parents,family and friends of Brian.

I lived in Arizona from 78-85 and one of my best friends was a Brian Mack. Something compelled to check the internet in search of him when I came across this memorial. Then, I saw his picture and thought it must be my old friend. The Brian I knew went to St. Theresa Catholic School and had a twin sister.

If this was my good childhood friend, I wanted to say you were the best friend a guy could have. I am certain you were the leader and friend to your troops that anybody would have been honored to serve under. Thank you for your ultimate sacrifice for this country. Either way I know you were loved by many."
Alan Bray of Beaverton, OR

"January 11, 2009
To the family of Sgt. 1st Class Brian A. Mack:
Brian gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org"
Peggy Childers of Carson City, NV

"I truly miss you and my prayers are with your family for losing such a wonderful man."
Renee' of Adana, Turkey

"Its been 5 years today that this war started and 3 years since you were taken. I still miss you every day, Brian. I pass by Ft. Lewis every day and I touch the angel in my car and say a prayer for you. You will NEVER be forgoten."
Rhonda Leatherwood of Olympia, WA

"I am so sorry an have loved brian with all my heart he means everything to me a pray ever night for him to just be there when i wake up I LOVE YOU BRIAN"
Stephen Draggee of phoenix az

"What can I say About the greatest leader I ever knew...I will miss him so dearly that words cannot even explain how much..what a warrior..I looked up to him like a father figure. He gave me the nickname Beef that all the recon guys call me by, and though it was funny then..I cherish it now. The world took him away from us too soon..and he will NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. To his family, my utmost respect goes out and my deepest sympathies."
David Solso aka Beef of Olympia,Wa

"Lisa & Ashley,

I was so sorry to hear about Brian. I was in the LRS with him at Fort Hood and it was an honor to have served with him. I hope that the two of you are doing well. I was in Mosul when Brian was there. I was working with 24 on the other side of the river. My heart sank deeply when I first heard about Brian. If there is anything that I can ever do for either of you please don't hesitate to call on me. I am now in the National Guard and am serving in Baghdad this time but when I get home and if you are ever in Illinois please look me up."
SFC Eric Joseph of Eureka, IL

"I was there with Mack in Mosul. I remember getting the radio call that day and it was a surreal moment suspended among sureal moments. His warrior spirit was a presence we never understood fully until it was no longer among us. He ran his scouts like a family and took seriously the task of bringing home all of his boys. I saw the pain on their faces when they came in that day and felt the sorrow with them. It can only be a fraction of what his family felt and is feeling, but for those whose lives he touched it is a pain that we will carry forever. It is a pain that I will always use to motivate my efforts and it is a sacrifice that I will teach to my sons so that generations will remember his life and his gift to us.
Thank God for the scouts and their fallen leader."
Brad Benton of Fort Huachuca, AZ

"As we observe veterans day, I will always remember it is for Veterans like SFC Mack that we observe it for. He was always a great role model and as a young NCO I looked up to him, and tried to model myself as a soldier after him. You will always be remembered for being a smart *, but also for being a straight shooter. You always knew where you stood with Mack. Rest In Peace brother. Lisa and Ashley I hope all is well. I know yours was the greatest sacrifice of all. God bless you and keep you."
Sean Butler of Tampa, Fl

"It was an honor to serve with Brian at the 6th Ranger Training BN, Florida. I will not forget you!

To “The Fallen.”
The warriors of selfless service and sacrifice
You are not forgotten
Never shall those who never tread the winepress understand

For “The Fallen.”
We respect your dreams
Dreams of a Home, a Family, and a life of happiness and great joy
Dreams of green grass and the colors of the changing leaves
Dreams of the open arms of a loved one

To those who are at home and return home
Never forget the dreams of those who cannot live them
Live your life to the fullest
If not for you, do it for “The Fallen.”

To “The Fallen.”
Tears swell from the eyes of men and women.
Those who knew you and never known you
All mourn the void left behind

To “The living.”
Fill the void with a new song
Do not waste time and live a good life

To “The Fallen.”
Your Dreams will not be left forgotten,
We will not forget!



Author; Terry Allen Pease"
SSG Pease, Terry A. of Fort Drum, NY

"To Brians Family and to the best Uncle I ever had, Uncle Ted. This is Ken K. Hope everyone is doing better these days and your future be bright. Everything happens for a reason. We'll never know why sometimes. They wouldn't let me in the Army,lol.. They only want the best. I suppose that's why Brian got in and not me. I'm really sad about this and I hope the XXXXXXX that placed the bomb on the road got his XXX blown away. I'm sure it has or will happen in time. I believe in Carma. Seen it many times over."
Ken Kuban of Phoenix, Arizona United States of America

"We still miss you Mack. Always will!"
D Pratt of Fort Worth, Texas

"May 27, 2007
Today all our servicemen and women are in our prayers but we particularly remember Lisa and Ashley and all of Brian's family. We have not forgotten."
Linda (Gallaher) Hampton of Tucson, AZ USA

"SFC Mack, as the two year anniversary of your death approaches, our families wish to add our gratitude for your service and to say that your sacrifice is not forgotten. Strength, faith and honor to you and your family."
Choukalas & Tropea Families of Glendale, AZ

"Brian was my brothers best friend growing up! They were always hanging out together, for a long time you didn't see one withouth the other, Brian was a big brother to me too. He is missed & he is loved. He is one of the bravest people I know.. I will always remember the good times & I will never forget him. Thank you Mr. & Mrs Mack for such a great SON!!"
Corrina Hale (McGivney) of Glendale, AZ, USA

"he was my uncle and i loved him very much."
chris hale of glendale,arizona

"I would like to thank all of you for your thoughts and condolences, it is greatly appreciated. Not only was my father a great man and soldier but to me he was a great role model and my best friend. I think about him every second of the day and know that I have to go on and achieve great things to make him proud. I often hear him in my head saying all the funny things he would say to me and I begin to laugh. He would constantly remind me “Nobody likes an idiot so get an education”, of course in his own choice of words. He was my strength when he was around and is still me strength from above. All your comments are extremely valued. Thank you for all your support.
Ashley Mack"
Ashley Mack of Dupont WA

"Brian was my platoon sergeant while we were in Iraq. He was a one-of-a-kind person. His men were his first priority and everyone knew that. I just hope that one day I can be the leader he was. Until we meet again my brother..."
Kevin Robinson of Fort Lewis, Wa

"I did not know Brian, but I was made aware of his sacrifice through an online friend. Or Sunday School class honors one fallen hero a week, and this next week (06/25/06)we will honor Brian. Our prayers for your family will be offered. Thank you, Brian."
Gordon Huey of Jackson, MS

"Lisa and Ashley,
Brian and I were buddies in A Co., 6th RTB. He was my good friend and my mentor as an RI. I enjoyed many walking days with Brian and learned alot from him. I can still remember his sarcastic "Yeah, right!" he always threw out in our PTT. We had alot of fun as Jumpmasters together at the camp and at the "Best Ranger Competition". He loved and enjoyed life to the fullest and his jovial personality was infectious to everyone who knew him. You could never be in a bad mood around him and he always made us smile with a joke or a wise crack. I am honored to have been able to call him my friend. He will be dearly missed by myself, my family, and our Ranger family at the camp. My condolences."
SFC Matt Morrone of Guam

"Saturday, May 27, 2006

This morning, my son's Cub Scout pack, along with may other scout volunteers, placed American Flags on all of the grave sites at the National Memorial Cemetary in North Phoenix. As we were placing flags in our assigned section, we can across Brian's headstone. None of us knew Brian, but we paused when we read the short history of his life on the marker. I explained to my son that this is the reason we were here today - to honor the memory of all of the people who have served our country and especially to those who have given their lives for us to enjoy our freedom. I showed the Scout Master Brian's marker, and we gathered the whole pack around. We explained to the boys what we could about Brian from the engravings, took a picture of the pack, and said a word of thanks to him and so many like him.

I wrote down Brian's name, rank and date of death, then looked-up this site once I returned home. I wanted to thank Brian's family for their son's/husband's/father's sacrifice. I will be thinking of Brian, and all of the US Service members this weekend and remain thankful that there are people like him in this world that help us all."
Tommy Solomon of Chandler, AZ, USA

"SFC Mack was one-in-a-million as a soldier and when he was assigned to the S-3 shop at 1/24 Inf. at Fort Lewis, he did all he could to get back on the line with his men. He epitomized a soldier in every meaning of the word and he will forever live on in the hearts of all those who had the pleasure of serving with him.
As my military career quickly slid from the top to the dregs of a quick out, he never judged me for what I was doing and was the first to wish me well as a civilian.
My family's many thoughts and prayers are with all who knew him."
Charles Melton of Kingston, Washington

"SFC Mack was one of my Ranger Instructors in A Co, 6th RTB during Florida Phase of Ranger School. Through example, he taught us about being a warrior, taking care of soldiers and leadership. I will never forget him and will never let others forget his sacrifice."
David N. Farrell of Newport News, VA

"From our military family (Vietnam, OEF, OIF) we would like to say Thank You for the sacrifice made for our Freedom and Safety here in the United States.
I would also ask that Lisa, or any other family member, contact me so that our Organization, Marine Comfort Quilts, can get her a personalized quilt. To date (12.9.05) we do not have means, either by phone or email to make contact. Please let me hear from you/someone on how to reach Lisa as soon as possible."
Patricia/teacher32@charter.net of Benton, Mo

"Lisa and Ashley,

As the holidays approach, I think about Brian and your family and I just wanted to let you know that Brian's loss has had an impact around the world. I, along with fellow comrades here in Paris, France (Jeff and Beth Healy [Skelly]) from A Co., 6th RTB remember 'Mack' with the fondest memories. He was a great soldier/Ranger, husband and father, and a good friend. We all miss him dearly.
He will never be forgotten. I wish you both the best."
SFC Erik Math of USDAO Paris, France. Tel # (33)-1-43.12.28.25

"As the holidays approach, my heart is heavy with thoughts of how difficult this time of the year must be for Brian's family. I wish that there was something I could do to lighten this burden but feel helpless. Please know that the Gallaher family is thinking of you and keeps you in their prayers. We appreciate all our men who are protecting us and the values that America stands for! Do not loose heart."
Linda (Gallaher) Hampton of Tucson, Arizona

"To the family of Brian Mack. I knew Brian from elementary school, on up to high school He was a wonderful person. I was sorry to hear of his passing. I to lived in Washington with my husband who also serves in the Army. He could make people laugh at just about anything in school I just went thru some old pictures and found one of his high school pictures, the funny thing, it was the one with the hat. His bad hair day. Good knowing you Brian, you are now safe and I know that you willbe watching over my husbands and all others backs while you are up there. May you his family be safe.God Bless you!!"
Joseph & Lena Eylicio of CA

"Dear Ashley Im sorry about brian is there anything i can do to make you feel any better ."
Gene of MADISON T.N.

"I would like to express my gratitude for the service to this nation by Mack and his family. As a veteran I want to offer my condolences for his loss. God Bless him and his family."
R. Pursel of Clayton, NC

"To the family of: Brian A. Mack, I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. He died a hero defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Prayerfully, we will meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need prayer or need someone to talk to, please call or write my pastor, Rev. John Pearrell, Gateway Community Church, 11677 Brown Bridge Rd., Covington, GA 30016. (770)787-1015. Your friend in Jesus Chirst,"
Polly Ballew of Covington,Ga

"Dear Rick and Barbara, the parents of Brian Mack. I am very sorry to hear about Brian. Scot told me what had happened when I was last in Arizona. I didn't know how to get in touch with you and I don't know if he forwarded my condolences to you. I'm in Mosul now for the next year. My prayers are with you!"
Rebecca (Arndt) Jones of Mosul, Iraq

""Lisa and Ashley", I am so soory that this could happen to such a great family like yours. You and Brian were like family to me and my former wife Irene. I will always remember the days of weekend softball tournaments and backyard volleyball. I loved and looked up to Brian as a "Big Brother". He will always be in my heart. Please contact me if you need anything.

Love Michael"
SFC Michael Sandoval of 185 Hall St., Unit 101, Wahiawa HI. 96786

"Lisa and Ashly, our prayers are with you all the time on the loss of a great friend, husband, father and mentor. Brian will be missed but loved in our hearts every day. Take care of yourselfs and call if you need anything.907-696-0451"
SSG David and Shannan Ralston of Ft. Richardson, Alaska

"I was sorry to hear about Brian, while visiting our old high school (Maryvale) web site. Brian was a great guy and was amazed on how far he had come.

In school Brian was known for his athletic ability and his sense of humor. Though I wasn't good friends with him, we did talk from time to time.

I remember when he had his school picture taken one year. He was wearing his baseball cap and the photographer wanted him to take it off. Brian said he wanted to wear it and the guy asked why. Brian told him, he was having a "bad hair day" as he took off his hat. It was a "you had to be there moment".

My wishes and prayers go out to the Mack family on their loss."
Susan Krueger-Monroe of Tyler, Texas

"My deepest condolences to mack family. I grew up with Brain, Brian and i played baseball as young kids Brians parents were amazingly proud parents of there 2 boys fun outgoing living life to there fullest they were the family you love hanging around and spending time with , i remember Brian's mom being such a proud mother when he joined the military and how he loved his children oh so much. I know is brian never passed in vain, we used to joke about who was better in baseball and who had the cutiest girlfriends that was back in middle school then he fell in love with the love of his life. when i last seen Brian had a beautiful daughter grandma and granpa mack just loved her so much..Brian was so proud of being a father of being in the Military how proud Brian was..i'll miss him we nicked name him "mac attack" when we played sport and "mac daddy" when it came to the girls, if misses mac is reading this pls. call me 623-204-0870 i miss you guys my mother herd about Brian and brought it to my attention God Bless you love Andrew."
Andrew J Sanchez of Suprise Az

"SFC Mack you were a tough soldier, and a good man. You always tried to push a little harder. I didnt serve under you for long but it was an honor"
SSGT Childs of Grand Blanc MI

"Others and myself called Brian "The Mack Attack!" He was fun and great to work with and I wish his family well and my "GOD BLESS ALL OUR TROOPS""
John Gamblin SSGT (Ret.) of Lynonville, Vermont

"we lost our 19 year old son, in or near Mosel, on Jan.13, also..I pray that the healing process has begun for you, and that the happy memories will surround you, always. posted superbowl sunday.....PS ..LAND OF THE FREE ,,,, BECAUSE OF THE BRAVE!"
doug & debey of forestburg, s.d. USA

"SGT.MACK,you will always be remembered for the true HERO you are, and Iam honored to have served under you. As I always looked up to you as a leader and friend. The days we all had in the 1/24th scout plt. was something special and is will never be forgotten. For your family my prayers are with you all."
Johan Weibull of Lakewood, WA

"I was so sorry to here about Brian, I went to school with his brother and talked to him a lot. Brian was a great guy then and as I've read he was a wonderful soldier. Brian you gave your life to keep us free. Thank you.....! My prayers are with his wife,daughter and Kevin and his mom and dad..... We'll miss you."
Stephanie (Gatlos) Johnson of Staunton Il

"I grew up with Brian & his older brother in Phoenix,when Brian was young you could tell the he was someone special.Everyone who knew him liked him,he had a special quality about him.Even though I haven't seen Brian since high school I knew that he would be a special person when he got older.I can only say how sorry I am to his wife,parents,brother and anyone who knew him.Brian will be missed."
Peter Lockbaum of Colorado Springs, COLO USA

"To Brian's Family:
There are no words to express the sorrow we feel for your loss. May God bless you and help you through this time."
Dan and Meg Manninen of San Antonio, Texas

"Our hearts and prayers go out to you, Lisa and your daughter Ashley. We are both so saddened by Brian's death. His sense of humor and genorosity will always be remembered. One thing that sticks out in my mind is how much he loved you and was so proud and protective of his little girl. He and your family will ALWAYS be in our hearts and we will always be indebted to his sacrifice."
Jessica and Rob Buelna of Texas

"Lisa and Ashley--Words cannot describe our sorrow in the loss of Mack. Always remember that he is a hero & will always be remembered as a great friend and leader. God Bless you & keep you comforted in these difficult days. We are here for you in thoughts & prayers."
Steve & Jessica Viands of Ft Benning, GA

"Brian, the memories you left behind will never be forgotten. You were a true hero, father, husband, leader and Ranger Buddy. I will always remember the great parties we all had as a big family in the Scout Platoon of 1/24 INF. May you rest in peace. Lisa and Ash, our prayers are with you and remember we are always here for you for what ever it is you need. We love you all and may God bless you guys."
Rob & Jessica Buelna of Fort Hood, Texas

"Brian, I will miss you so much. You were a great friend with a great sense of humor. You were a wonderful father to your daughter Ashley. Lisa and Ashley please know I am so sorry for your loss and know that if you want to talk I am always here."
Rhonda Leatherwood of Spokane WA USA

"BRIAN, my friend buddy, MACK! ill miss you and so will all the bois. stay happy up in heaven you were one of the coolest guy's i knew. THANK YOU for serving our country. I'll miss you buddy."
Danielle of Tacoma, WA

"We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness, and we are remembering your family in your loss and your deep grief. Your HERO, Brian , will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you ALWAYS. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"Thank you Brian for defending the freedoms we all cherish. You are our hero and we will remember you each day we raise our flag in the front yard. God Bless you and may He grant peace to your loved ones at this time. From a very grateful American family."
The Shaw family of Pasadena, Maryland

"Thank you Brian Mack, you will not be forgotten. Your bravery goes beyond words. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your sacrifice. To the family and friends, my prayers and deep condolences in your loss. May God strengthen you from knowing that fellow Americans and people around the world care about you and grieve with you in your loss. God bless you all. A very appreciative fellow American,"
Leo Titus of Grayslake, Illinios

"To the family and friends of Sgt. 1st Class Brian Mack:
May God's grace be with you during your time of grief. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and we feel your loss and share in your sorrow. Bless Brian for the sacrifice he has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada

"To the family and friends of Sgt. 1st Class Brian Mack:
I am saddened by the loss of your loved one. He will always be remembered as a hero for fighting for freedom. I hope that this website will be a source of comfort and encouragement for you during this difficult time, and in the future as you recall the memories of Brian, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia